New Congress opens for formalities

January 6, 1981

By WITH ANALYSIS FROM MONITOR CORRESPONDENTS AROUND THE WORLD

EDITED BY RANDY SHIPP

Washington

The 97th Congress, the majorities in its two chambers divided politically for the first time in 50 years, formally opened for business with new members being sworn in and celebration parties to follow. Today (Jan. 6) the House will count the votes of the Electoral College, the final step in Ronald Reagan's election as president. Both chambers will recess after the session and do not plan business sessions until the week of Mr. Reagan's Jan. 20 inauguration. The 72nd Congress, which took office in 1931, was the last to have its ch ambers under differing partisan control.